Jim Daly (Cork South West, Fine Gael)
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63. To ask the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport the steps he is taking to improve maritime safety. [31079/13]

Leo Varadkar (Dublin West, Fine Gael)
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One of my Ministerial Priorities for 2013 is to implement a Maritime ‘Safety at Sea’ initiative.   

Ireland's maritime safety agenda is constantly being developed in line with developments across the maritime sector, including internationally recognised safety conventions, safety standards, codes of practice, and the promotion of a culture of safety among those who go to sea for leisure or to earn their living. The importance of ensuring the provision of search and rescue response capability is also vital.

I am currently considering the need for a new national maritime safety strategy and how such a strategy could be progressed in an integrated way for the sector. I expect to complete this consideration shortly. The focus of this strategy will be on the development of a culture of safety amongst seafarers and the crucial role of regulation and enforcement, particularly in relation to vessel inspection and certification as well as the certification and training of seafarers.

Recent tragedies occurring in the fishing industry and leisure activities on the water reinforce the need for continued vigilance with regard to safety on the water across the recreational, fishing and maritime industry generally. The Government supports enhancements to existing safety initiatives designed to promote a culture of water safety and prevent further loss of life and serious injury. In March, a programme of visits to Primary Schools by Coast Guard Units got underway to promote a greater awareness of water safety among children during school holidays in the summer months. In April, the Marine Safety Working Group of the Department of Transport Tourism and Sport updated and re-launched its website safetyonthewater.ie to provide safety advice and guidance to all involved in the maritime domain. On 12 June the Irish Coast Guard launched its new 'Stay Safe on the Water' TV advertising campaign aimed at families, leisure users and the fishing industry during the busy summer months.

In July, I and my colleague Minister Coveney will launch a joint initiative targeting increased safety in the fishing industry, concentrating on an integrated package of measures including mandatory training and grant aid for mandatory safety equipment. These measures are designed to enhance safety for fishermen and promote a culture of high safety standards within the industry.